Slackpacking in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Slackpacking Adventures in iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Explore Lakes, Forests & Coastal Trails

Discover the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on a slackpacking adventure, where multi-day hiking combines wild coastal scenery with the comfort of fully-supported overnight stays. Slackpacking allows you to explore this ecologically rich UNESCO World Heritage Site without carrying heavy backpacks, as your luggage is transferred between camps or lodges. Hikers typically carry only a small day pack, making it easy to immerse fully in the environment.

The journey includes the spectacular Kosi Bay Lakes, where wetlands, lakes, forests, and the Indian Ocean meet in a mosaic of biodiversity. Wander through giant fern and swamp forests, palm-dotted grasslands, and pristine beaches, observing traditional Thonga fishermen tending ancient fish traps or gliding through serene lake channels by boat. Between November and March, you may witness loggerhead and leatherback turtles hauling themselves ashore to nest — a truly unforgettable experience.

Slackpacking trails are led by experienced local guides, who share insights on the region’s unique ecology, culture, and history. Catered meals, luggage transfers, and trailhead pickups allow hikers to focus entirely on walking, exploring, and absorbing the rhythm of this extraordinary wilderness. For those seeking more coastal adventure, the Turtle Trails extend the journey, combining lakeside hiking with Maputaland’s untouched beaches, optional snorkeling, and stays in eco-lodges that blend comfort with barefoot luxury.

Slackpacking in iSimangaliso offers a perfect balance of adventure, nature, and culture, ideal for families, mixed-ability groups, and anyone seeking a soulful connection with South Africa’s northernmost coastal wilderness. Every day brings new scenery, wildlife encounters, and moments of quiet awe, making this a truly unforgettable coastal slackpacking experience.